International Court Rules Switzerland Violated Human Rights in Climate Case

The European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg delivered this verdict in a case brought by over 2,000 Swiss women, mainly in their 70s, against the Swiss government. They argued that climate change-induced heatwaves jeopardized their health and quality of life. The court found Switzerland's national legislation lacking in addressing planet-heating emissions and failing to meet previous climate targets, thereby infringing upon the women's rights to protection from the adverse effects of climate change. 

This landmark ruling, the court's first on climate litigation, could set a precedent for similar cases globally, prompting governments to revise their climate targets and accelerate efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption. While two other climate-related claims were dismissed, experts view this ruling as a significant step in using legal avenues to compel action on climate change amid escalating environmental concerns.